IT’S a 21st-century rock-and-roll dream: kid sings classic band’s song on reality TV show, then gets asked to join said classic band.
Bo Bice never thought his version of Blood, Sweat and Tears’ Spinning Wheel on American Idol in 2005 would open that door.
Bice finished second to Carrie Underwood on season four of Idol, his southern drawl winning millions of hearts with great versions of The Black Crowes’ Remedy, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Free Bird and Spinning Wheel.
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READ NOWThree years ago Bice was asked to join Blood, Sweat and Tears – the acclaimed outfit formed by Al Kooper in 1967.
The band fused rock, jazz, funk and soul into hits such as like You’ve Made Me So Very Happy, And When I Die and Lucretia Macevil.
“They gave me a call and said ‘Hey, would you be interested in this opportunity?’,” Bice said.
“At the time I never thought in a million years it would be an audition for Blood, Sweat and Tears.
“It was only going to be like three shows, five shows.
“We just kept booking them. Over time, it kind of took off.”
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the formation of Blood, Sweat and Tears.
The band is still under the musical direction of original member Bobby Colomby and embarking on its second Australian tour in 18 months.
Bice said he was continually amazed by the quality of musicians in the band.
“I’m honoured to be somewhat of an ambassador for this band because the music is something special,” Bice said.
“Every night I get caught up in the calibre of musicians I get to stand on stage with.”
Community Newspaper Group has 10 double passes to give away to Blood, Sweat and Tears on Wednesday, March 15. Enter here by 10am, February 24.
THE ESSENTIALS
What: Blood, Sweat and Tears
Where: Astor Theatre
When: March 15
Tickets: www.astortheatreperth.com